Theses and Dissertations

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Browsing Theses and Dissertations by Subject "Palabek"

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    PSYCHOSOCIAL SUPPORT SERVICES AND CHILD ABUSE REDUCTION IN REFUGEE SETTLEMENTS: A CASE STUDY OF PALABEK REFUGEE SETTLEMENT CAMP
    (Gulu University, 2026-09) Amali, Getrude Ruth
    This study examined how psychosocial support services contribute to reducing child abuse in Palabek Refugee Settlement, with specific attention to the availability of services, the nature of abuse, the influence of social and cultural factors and the overall effectiveness of psychosocial interventions. A mixed-method research design was employed, combining structured questionnaires administered to caregivers with key informant interviews involving Non-Governmental Organization staff, community leaders, and government officials, as well as focus group discussions with caregivers, children and child protection committee members. This approach enabled the study to capture both measurable trends and rich lived experiences related to child protection in the settlement. The findings revealed that counselling services, family support programs, and peer support groups are widely implemented by humanitarian agencies and are generally well received by both children and caregivers. Among these, family support emerged as the strongest protective factor, helping caregivers adopt non-violent discipline methods and strengthening emotional bonds within households. Counselling services were particularly helpful for children experiencing trauma and stress, allowing them to regain emotional stability and confidence. Peer support groups provided safe spaces for children to share experiences, although their effectiveness depended greatly on the quality of facilitation and regularity of meetings. The study further established that emotional abuse remains highly prevalent, largely driven by household stress and economic hardship, while physical and sexual abuse, although less frequently reported, still affect many children. Deep-rooted cultural norms such as the acceptance of corporal punishment and silence surrounding sexual abuse continue to weaken child protection efforts. Overall, the study concludes that psychosocial support services are a critical strategy for reducing child abuse in refugee settings, especially when combined with family involvement, community awareness, and cultural transformation initiatives. It recommends expanding family-centered interventions, strengthening trauma-informed counselling, engaging community and cultural leaders, and investing in long-term behavior change programs to ensure safer environments for children in refugee settlements.